Roma’s new signing Michel Bastos landed himself in hot water after holding aloft a scarf mocking fierce rivals Lazio as he was unveiled at the Stadio Olimpico.

The Brazilian international was given the garment, which was emblazoned with ‘Lazio Merde’ (translated as ‘Lazio s***’), as he was introduced to the crowd ahead of the Coppa Italia victory over Juventus on Tuesday night.

Roma were later forced to apologise for the incident, insisting the winger, who has joined on loan from United Arab Emirates side Al Ain, was unaware of what the message meant.

A club statement read: ‘Bastos has shown a scarf thrown by the fans without knowing the message it had. The club and Michel would like to apologise for what took place.’